Category Manager

Category Manager at netPolarity, Inc. (Saicon Consultants, Inc.) Category Manager at netPolarity, Inc. (Saicon Consultants, Inc.) in San Jose, California Posted in 4 days ago.

Type:

full-time

Job Description:

Title:

IT Category Manager Location:

San Jose, CA (Monday-Thursday onsite, Friday remote)

Compensation:

$60 - $65 an hour on W2

Duration:

6 months IT Category Manager Role Overview The IT Category Manager at Cadence leads sourcing and procurement for IT hardware, software, and services, including servers, laptops, software tools, and data center support. This role partners closely with R D engineering, IT, and business teams to deliver cost savings, reduce risk, and ensure reliable supplier performance that supports IT and business operations. Key Responsibilities Lead sourcing and procurement for IT categories supporting engineering and enterprise needs Develop and execute category strategies to optimize cost, quality, service, and risk Partner with R D, IT, and cross-functional stakeholders to define requirements and specifications Conduct supplier evaluations, competitive sourcing, and contract negotiations Manage supplier relationships, performance, and continuous improvement initiatives Drive measurable savings, cost avoidance, and value creation Monitor market trends and benchmark pricing to inform sourcing decisions Ensure compliance with Cadence procurement policies and processes Support efficient Procure-to-pay workflows, including purchase request (PR) creation and physical delivery tracking Improve visibility and accuracy across procurement and goods receipt processes Qualifications Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain, or related field 5+ years of sourcing or procurement experience, with strong exposure to IT categories Proven experience negotiating contracts and managing suppliers Strong business judgment and ability to balance cost, risk, and operational needs Experience in sourcing IT hardware, software, SaaS Experience supporting technical or engineering stakeholders Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills Experience with procurement systems and sourcing tools Preferred Experience Experience sourcing software, hardware, or data center services in a high-tech environment Familiarity with software licensing models and supplier agreements Track record of delivering cost savings and supplier performance improvements What Success Looks Like Seamless support for engineering and IT procurement needs Improved supplier performance and reduced risk Consistent delivery of savings and cost efficiency Strong stakeholder satisfaction and partnership